Bihar Declares Naxal-Free Status, Focus Shifts to Development in Former Hotspots

The meeting focused on assessing progress in four key Naxal-affected districts-Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui, and Lakhisarai.

A major highlight of the review was the assertion that Bihar is now effectively free from Naxalite influence.

Officials noted that no incidents of violent attacks on police have been reported since 2020.

Additionally, between January 2025 and March 2026, 256 extremists have been arrested as part of intensified security operations.

Significant progress has been made under the Road Connectivity Project for LWE Areas (RCPLWEA).

Out of 153 sanctioned roads (1,980.8 km), 132 roads covering 1,825.12 km have been completed, along with the construction of 74 bridges.

Efforts are also underway to resolve forest clearance issues to improve mobile and telecom connectivity in remote areas.

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) are currently operational in West Champaran and Jamui, with emphasis being placed on affiliation with the Bihar School Examination Board to streamline academic functioning.

In terms of financial inclusion, 782 bank branches are operational across these four districts-accounting for nearly 10% of the state's total.

To further expand access, the government is offering rent-free spaces in Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans for opening new bank branches.

With the decline of Naxal influence, healthcare services are now reaching previously inaccessible shadow zones.

Immunisation coverage has seen a sharp rise with 94% in Aurangabad, 91% in Jamui, 90% in Gaya, and 85% in Lakhisarai districts.

There has also been a notable improvement in the number and quality of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (HSC-AAMs) across these regions.

To boost local economies, the government plans to develop basic infrastructure in tourist locations such as the Chakarbandha hills (Gaya) and the Bhimbandh region (Munger, Lakhisarai, Jamui).

The administration is also focusing on youth empowerment through employment and sports.

Initiatives like the "Medal Lao, Naukri Pao" scheme aim to encourage sports participation while creating pathways to government jobs.

Local youth are also being motivated to appear for competitive examinations.

Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit directed officials to accelerate development projects across all sectors, simplify and make transparent the process of environmental and forest clearances, ensure time-bound completion of infrastructure projects, provide priority and relaxations to local youth and contractors, and guarantee that welfare schemes reach the last mile without obstruction.

The review underscores a significant transition in these districts-from security challenges to a development-focused governance model, with the administration aiming to consolidate gains and ensure inclusive growth in the post-Naxal phase.

- IANS